Isle of Man Guide

HOME Affairs Minister Adrian Earnshaw MHK has congratulated prisoners who achieved grade C or above in English or Maths GCSE while in custody.

Presenting four men and one woman with their certificates in the prison’s library, the Minister praised them all for persevering with their studies while in the Isle of Man Prison, Jurby. He said:

‘I congratulate everyone who is receiving a certificate today and encourage you to make full use of the education provided at the Isle of Man Prison to continue your studies. It is pleasing that the Island’s investment in the new facility is achieving its aim of increasing opportunities for education for those in custody. Well done to each of you for your exam success. I hope you continue with your studies and trust that this will benefit you in the long term.’

A total of seven prisoners received grade C or above in examinations they sat, in the prison, in November. Two have since been released on completion of their sentence. Certificates presented by Mr Earnshaw included two to prisoners who achieved grade B passes in English and three to prisoners who attained grade C in GCSE maths. All recipients are in their twenties.

Education manager Judy Jackson (pictured above with the Minister), said:

‘We have often had one or two GCSE successes but this is the largest group at one time. They have all done really well and are trying to make the best of a bad situation. Just like anyone who continues their education at any level, these prisoners want to improve themselves and their prospects.

‘The certificates received today (Tuesday April 13, 2010) are even more impressive when you realise one or two candidates started the course late and still achieved the C grade.’

Judy went on:

‘We are also getting much better success in the number of prisoners attaining basic skills qualifications, thanks to them attending educational courses on a more regular basis. Having proper facilities makes all the difference in terms of stability and regularity of attendance. We have been able to extend the range of subjects that we deliver. We concentrate on skills that will help prisoners to find and keep work. Prisoners have always had the opportunity to study but since the move to Jurby we are achieving a lot more.’

Prisoners who complete their sentence part way through a course are encouraged to complete their studies, often with the same tutor, and to sit final exams at the Isle of Man College, Douglas. Education at the prison is provided by staff from the IoM College.

Additionally, the prison is looking to expand the type of education available including providing more vocational skills courses. Plumbing, carpentry/joinery, catering and horticulture are already available. A recent appeal by the Minister for volunteers to assist with additional tuition has resulted in several people contacting the Education Manager. Plans to expand the range of courses offered are at an early stage.

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